The Chairman of Kuje Area Council, in Abuja, Samuel Shekwolo, has clarified his controversial remarks in a viral video in which he was quoted as saying residents must support the All Progressives Congress (APC) or leave the council.
Shekwolo said the statement had been taken out of context, following widespread criticism and backlash over the video circulating on social media.
In a clarification issued on Wednesday, the council chairman explained that the video was extracted from a broader discussion and did not reflect the intended meaning of his remarks, and maintained that his administration remained committed to the welfare and development of all residents of Kuje Area Council, irrespective of their political affiliation, ethnicity or religion.
Shekwolo also stressed that, as an elected council chairman, he had no authority to disenfranchise any resident or deny citizens their fundamental rights on the basis of political differences.
The chairman urged residents to disregard interpretations of the video that suggested his administration intended to compel citizens to support a particular political party.
He further appealed to members of the public to work with his administration towards the development of Kuje Area Council, while calling for responsible reporting and proper contextualisation of public statements.
The controversy followed an earlier video in which Shekwolo was heard making comments interpreted by many as a threat to residents who did not support the APC.
The remarks generated reactions on social media, with critics accusing the chairman of attempting to restrict residents’ political choices.
However, in the latest video, Shekwolo maintained that the original remarks were misunderstood and taken out of context, insisting that his administration remained committed to inclusive governance and the interests of all residents.